Family, Friends, Co Workers, City Officials and his wife Jan gathered this morning for a ceremony to honor the work of former Mayor Jerry Ryan and mark the naming of the entrance road into American Heroes Park as "Jerry Ryan Plaza"
Bellevue Mayor Rita Sanders, City Councilman Don Preister, former Councilman Jack Charvat and Mayor Ryan's Daughter Jean Fisher all shared their thoughts on what Mayor Ryan meant to the community and to his family.
Jerry Ryan served as Mayor of Bellevue from 1998 until 2006. During Mayor Ryan's tenure, the city was able to enter into an agreement with the Nebraska Public Power District that provided for the removal of the former power station on the property and begin the process of developing a master plan for the redevelopment of the area as a regional park which, in part, would be dedicated in honor of the American Heroes of our community.
In addition, Mayor Ryan led the process for the installation of the wrought iron fencing around the Bellevue Cemetery; worked to bring the hospital, which is now Nebraska Medical, to Bellevue; and, partnered with the State of Nebraska for the Veteran's Home which was constructed on what was then city owned property.
City of Bellevue ordinances allow for the naming of a street or public facility, "...when such person or entity has made a significant contribution to the City by enhancing the quality of life and well-being of the city and its citizens...". This describes the service of Mayor Ryan and naming this road is especially appropriate due to his efforts to move American Heroes Park from an idea to reality.
Thank you to Mayor Ryan and his family for their many contributions to the Bellevue Community!